Mancini to opt for youngsters

– Roberto Mancini (above) will try out an experimental side in tonight’s friendly against the United States in Genk as the Italian coach searches for a solution to Italy’s goalscoring problem after missing out on the Nations League knockout stages.

Saturday’s goalless draw with Portugal at the San Siro was enough for the European champions to advance to the semifinals at Italy’s expense, and Mancini’s focus has turned towards Euro 2020 ahead of the qualifying draw in Dublin on December 2.

The ex-Manchester City boss said on Sunday he wants to “see young players in action”.

Veteran Giorgio Chiellini has returned to club side Juventus and Lorenzo Insigne, Alessandro Florenzi, Jorginho and Ciro Immobile also returned to their respective clubs following an end to their Nations League campaign that was simultaneously frustrating and encouraging.

“Of course, there’s a long way to go and we are working, trying to renew the national team with young players and a different tactical approach,” Mancini said.

Nearly nine million people watched the game as the country embraces a younger, more vibrant Azzurri after last year’s World Cup qualification disaster.

“Scoring goals is an important detail, but we played very well,” added Mancini, whose side only scored two goals in their Group A3 campaign.

Since the former Manchester City and Inter Milan boss took over they have scored just seven in eight games but Nations League performances against Poland and Portugal have given hope for the future. –

Milan